This year's FIFA World Cup will be the biggest in history as 48 nations vie for sport's biggest prize, while an intense political backdrop means plenty of action is expected off the pitch

The 2026 FIFA World Cup finally gets underway this week, and you can follow all of the latest breaking news before Thursday’s opening group-stage game with The Athletic. We’d also love to hear from you before Mexico vs South Africa at the Estadio Azteca on Thursday. Get in touch by emailing live@theathletic.com.

In-form Asian giants South Korea will open their Group A campaign in the FIFA World Cup 2026 against Czech Republic at the Estadio Zapopan on Thursday night.

USA Vs Germany LIVE Football Score, International Friendly 2026: Check real-time updates of the USA vs GER exhibition match at the Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois